Cheyne Magnusson Wins South Bay’s Bearback Classic

The Bear Back classic, one of the South Bay’s greatest local events gives tribute to the pre wetsuit surfers. Created by Greg Browning, Jeff Browning, and Jimmy Young, this surf contest takes place in the dead of winter…and the only rule is you have to surf your heats bareback. Along with the Hermosa Beach Iron Man and the Catalina Classic, the Bear Back Classic is another challenge that every South Bay waterman must compete in.

Body Glove Entertainment Director, Greg Browning said, “Every year a lot of people say they’re going to come down. My brother sends out an email to 150 people and every year we end up with about 12 competitors.” The event consists of four man, 20 minute heats. Every wave counts and you can receive extra points for wild costumes and out of the ordinary maneuvers. Possibly the greatest part of this event is that everyone on the beach gets to judge. After a couple grueling hours in 52 degree water, all the competitors cruise down to Pitcher House for breakfast and bloody mary’s.

We would like to congratulate Cheyne Magnusson for winning this years event. Cheyne said, “This is my second year doing the Bearback Classic. Last year I wore a one piece womens bikini. This year I stepped up my game and made some assless wetsuit chaps which were crucial in securing my win.” Past champions include Alex Gray, Greg Browning, Matt Walls and Chyo Baldocchi.